Adele smiled and accepted the candy, holding it gently in her palm.

Ariana turned to Shawn, inquiring, “Where's Mr. Fredrick? Would it be possible for Adele to spend the night at my place today?"

Shawn nodded in agreement, responding, “Sure. Mr. Fredrick is currently at a charity event. He'll join you later."

Ariana nodded and began to walk, hand in hand with Adele. Yet, to her astonishment, upon turning, she encountered Sadie, clad in a hospital gown, emerging from the examination area.

At the sight of Sadie, Ariana instinctively furrowed her brows, recalling Sadie's previous outburst upon witnessing her and Adele together. She hadn't expected to meet Sadie here.

Shawn's expression tensed with nervousness at the sight of Sadie as well.

He completely forgot to inquire about the appointment time for Sadie's examination. If Sadie stirred up trouble here, what course of action should he take?

He had observed Sadie's vehement reaction upon seeing Ariana with Adele. Considering Sadie's recent stress, he believed Sadie was capable of more aggressive actions now.

Shawn maintained a vigilant gaze on Sadie, while Ariana halted her advance, both exercising caution and observing Sadie.

To their surprise, Sadie just shot Ariana a cold look and then calmly beckoned Adele over, saying, “Adele, come here."

Ariana pressed her lips together, noticing the slight shiver in Adele's tiny hand within her own. It was clear Adele felt a bit frightened.

But Ariana knew she had no right to cling to Adele and keep her away from Sadie. Sadie was, after all, Adele's mom.

Ariana bowed her head to catch Adele's gaze, and just then, Adele lifted her eyes to meet Ariana's.

With a heavy sigh, Ariana let go of Adele's hand, whispering softly, "Go. Your mom's waiting."

Adele glanced towards Sadie and took tentative steps towards her, murmuring, "Mommy."

Ariana and Shawn watched with unease, worried Sadie might act harshly towards Adele.

But to their surprise, Sadie knelt down, ran her fingers gently over Adele's hair, and apologized, “My dear, I missed your birthday yesterday. I'm really sorry.”

While speaking, Sadie pulled out a beautifully crafted gemstone hairpin from her jacket and said, “This was your birthday gift. Happy birthday, my love."

She placed the hairpin in Adele's hand and kissed her on the forehead.

Seeing that Sadie didn't do anything out of the ordinary and appeared to be a loving mother, Shawn breathed a sigh of relief.